Liverpool field Charlie Adam in a narrow win over Guangdong Sunray Cave

Liverpool began their Asia tour with a close win over Guangdong Sunray Cave in China. Liverpool were dominant for most part of the match but the hosts netted in two late goals to narrow down the score-line to 4-3. The team was picked off the bench and the young blood got an opportunity to showcase their talent. David Ngog and Christian Poulsen got on the score-sheet for their own good. Ngog had a good number of chances before he finally scored and inspite of the goal looked lacking in the final touch.

The first goal came in the 19th minute as Joe Cole rendered his services via a cutting cross that was dispatched by Poulsen. Jonjo Shelvey looked in good touch as well as he contributed to Ngog’s goal to extend Liverpool’s lead to two goals. In the latter part of the first half, the hosts began to show some resistance and other than a Dani Pacheco shot there was little penetration from Liverpool.

Standing close by the purpose of providing field time to every player, Kenny Dalglish replaced most of the players at half-time. Liverpool’s latest signing from Blackpool, Charlie Adam displayed the requisite creativity which was lacking earlier in the game. He made some good looking passes but the consummating touch eluded Liverpool’s frontline. Other players who were seen on the field in the second half were Alberto Aquilani, Dirk Kuyt and Andy Carroll. Steven Gerrard is not a part of the tour as he continues his rehabilitation back in England.

There was little to do for Andy Carroll at Liverpool last season and he would effectively start a new journey this season. He showed glimpses of his talent by setting up Liverpool’s third goal and netting one in himself. Guangdong made a string of chances in the second half as well but they were punished for such defiance against the run of play when 18-year-old Coady got his name on the score-sheet. Andy Carroll’s deflected strike in the 85th minute completed Liverpool’s victory.

Liverpool grew complacent in the final minutes of the match and were duly punished by the Chinese. Liverpool’s defense suddenly seemed disinterested in the proceedings giving away two goals. At the same time, credit is due to Lu Lin who made a beautiful right foot finish in the 90th minute.

It is unlikely that most of the players in action here would make the first team but it was a good exposure for youngsters like Jonjo Shelvey and Andy Carroll. Charlie Adam was the highlight for Liverpool fans.